When you’re responsible for a loved one with a disability, estate planning takes on a different level of importance. You want to be sure they’re cared for—financially and personally—without putting their government benefits at risk. In New York, one of the most effective ways to achieve this is by creating a special needs trust. A special needs trust is designed to manage resources for a person with disabilities while preserving ... [Read More]

When people think about estate planning, they often focus on physical assets—things like bank accounts, houses, or family heirlooms. But in today’s digital world, many of our most important records and interactions are stored online. From email and social media accounts to cryptocurrency and cloud-stored documents, digital assets have real value and should be part of a complete estate plan. Failing to plan for these assets can leave loved ones ... [Read More]

Estate planning often brings to mind wills, trusts, and dividing assets. But one document that’s just as important—yet often overlooked—is the durable power of attorney. In New York, this document gives someone you trust the legal authority to manage your finances and property if you're unable to do so yourself. It’s not only practical, but also essential for protecting your interests during your lifetime. Understanding how a durable power of ... [Read More]

Estate planning is more than just writing a will or creating a trust. One often-overlooked detail that carries significant weight is the designation of beneficiaries. These decisions can directly affect how your assets are distributed and whether your intentions are followed after you pass. Many people in New York assume that once they’ve set up a will, everything is covered. In reality, that’s not always true. Some assets pass outside ... [Read More]

Running a successful business takes vision, hard work, and commitment. But one thing many business owners overlook is what happens when it's time to step away. Whether due to retirement, disability, or an unexpected event, having a plan in place for who will take over can protect both the business and the people who rely on it. Business succession planning is the process of preparing for the future transfer of ... [Read More]

Planning for the future involves more than just writing a will. A comprehensive estate plan ensures your wishes are carried out, your loved ones are protected, and unnecessary legal complications are avoided. But even with good intentions, people often make critical mistakes that create confusion, delays, and financial strain for their families. If you’re creating or updating an estate plan in New York, understanding where things commonly go wrong can ... [Read More]

When planning your estate, many people focus on real estate, personal assets, and other valuables. However, retirement accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions can play a significant role in your overall estate plan. These accounts may not be as tangible as property or heirlooms, but they often represent a large portion of a person’s wealth. Understanding how these assets fit into your estate planning is crucial for ensuring that your ... [Read More]

No one plans to become seriously ill or incapacitated. But when it happens, having a plan in place can make all the difference. If you are unable to communicate your medical wishes due to an accident, illness, or age-related decline, having the right legal documents can help protect your health, your dignity, and your family. In New York, two essential tools used in this type of planning are the health ... [Read More]

When putting together an estate plan, most people focus on the assets they own close to home. For New York residents, that often means a primary residence, bank accounts, retirement savings, and personal property. But what happens when you own property in another state? Whether it’s a vacation home in Florida, a rental property in New Jersey, or inherited land in Pennsylvania, it’s essential to make sure these assets are ... [Read More]

Creating a trust is a key part of estate planning, helping to manage your assets and ensure they are distributed according to your wishes. If you are considering setting up a trust in New York, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to choose a revocable or irrevocable trust. Both options serve different purposes and come with unique benefits and limitations. Understanding these differences can help ... [Read More]